Piatra Neamț is a town situated in a mountain valley, surrounded by forested mountains and several small but picturesque dam lakes formed on the Bystrzyca River.
The city was founded as a trade and craft center in the 14th century, but the first traces of settlement in this area come from prehistoric times. Scientists believe that it is one of the first areas in Romania where humans appeared. Objects found during the excavations and other testimonies of Piatra Neamț's rich past can be seen at the Museum of History and Archeology .
Many historic buildings have been preserved in the city center. It is primarily the Church of the Birth of St. John the Baptist, the interior of which is decorated with polychromes and the Gothic Tower of Stefan the Great . The historical importance of Piatra Neamț for the territory of Moldova is demonstrated by the Royal Court Museum , which, among others, also tells about the existence of the highest princely court in the city.
While visiting Piatra Neamț, you can also visit several other interesting museums, including the Natural SciencesMuseum , the ArtMuseum and the Calistrat Hogaș Memorial Museum . The town's curiosity is the wooden synagogue, which has been restored in recent years.
However, the most important attractions of Piatra Neamț are related to its mountain location. The surrounding mountains are a perfect area for active tourism. In turn, there are beaches and separate bathing areas on the dam lakes. You can also use boats or canoes on them. Mount Cozla , rising above the center of Piatra Neamà, can be reached by gondola lift .